Posts tagged with "holidays"

With one of the most basic days of the year right around the corner – here are some festive cocktails to sip on no matter how you’re celebrating February 14th. Just because Valentine’s Day may be basic, doesn’t mean your drinks have to be!

See below for recipes from the recently released Beefeater Pink, created by Global Brand Ambassador Sumaiyah Connolly, that are not only easy to create at home but easy to fall in love with.

Totally Money’s Credit Spending Index reveals the nation is spending 46% more on credit cards compared to ten years ago.

56% of parents would rather save for a family holiday than clothing for children and school equipment and trips.

78% of parents worry about their financial situation at least once a month

Getting kids back to school means buying new P.E. kits, geometry sets, and school uniforms, 64% of parents, however, are frequently concerned about being able to afford their bills – so how are parents managing to cope with their cash flow, bills, and outgoings? The last ten years have been filled with financial uncertainty, from the market crash to the housing bubble, these have affected all forms of spending habits such as the price of petrol to the price of school lunches.

Families are becoming more frugal when it comes to watching their pennies. Totally Money’s new research explores spending over the past decade, tracking data on consumer behavior, to reveal how parents have been managing their cash and paying their bills.

Younger Families Rely the Most on Credit Card Spending

Although the number of credit cards and accounts in circulation has decreased by 10% over the past decade, the number of purchases made have risen by 25%. Totally Money’s study reveals that the total value of credit card purchases has increased by a worryingly high 46%. When parents were asked if they feel they rely too heavily on their credit cards, 13% agreed. This agreement peaked to just under one out of five parents with young families (those who have children under the age of three).

Parents Prioritize Holiday Saving

The survey also revealed that a shocking 78% of parents worry about their financial situation on a monthly basis, with 28% worrying daily. However, despite this, an alarming 56% of parents prioritize saving for their family holiday over clothing for their children, as well as school equipment and school trips.

Credit Card Spending

With just over 75% of parents owning a credit card, 36% rely on their credit card to get them through the month – spending an average of £643 per month. The study also unveiled younger families might worry the most but are evidently savvier when it comes to their pennies; spending the least on their credit cards per month (£551). However, whilst parents with children aged between eight and twelve have the highest amount of disposable income, an average of £315 left at the end month, it seems the same group tend to be the most reliant on their credit cards; averagely spending £742 per month.

44% of parents say they find themselves concerned about being able to afford their bills every month. This could be accredited to the increase in the cost of living as well as inflation compared to the national average salary of £27,600 – £1,200 less than the national average weekly household spend of £554.20, equating to a yearly figure of £28,818.

Joe Gardiner, Head of Brand and Communications at Totally Money, comments, “It’s no secret that the way British people are spending their money has changed over the years. Although outstanding personal loans per household have fallen by 13%, the number of purchases has risen by 25%, which can be accredited to the difference of 4% between how much people are spending yearly and the average national wage.”

“Brits are having to carefully consider what they deem to be important in order to make their income stretch even further. When asked what measures people put in place to assure they rely on your credit cards and/or overdrafts, it was really encouraging to hear the majority of people surveyed replied that they’re actively taking control of their finances by keeping an eye on unnecessary spending and budgeting in advance. ”

To view the full tool ‘The Evolution of British Spending’ click here to discover more.

This Maritime Village Celebrates Holidays with Lighted Crab Pot Trees,a Weekend of Lighted Boat Parades, Two Tall Ships in the Harbor, a Plethora of Holiday Events and Abundant Local Seasonal Crab at Fish Markets and Restaurants!

With a boat-filled harbor and miles of beautiful beaches, Morro Bay celebrates the spirit of this fishing village in maritime style during holiday season. Find festive holiday trees made out of crab pots throughout town, historic tall ships Lady Washington and Hawaiian Chieftain in the harbor during November and December, Santa’s House on the Embarcadero, two lighted boat parades, a paddle parade and so much more.

“Morro Bay during the holidays is a fun place to visit,” says Jennifer Little, Morro Bay Tourism Manager. “Crab season is open and abundant, boat parades and tall ships in harbor, nearly 30 crab pot holiday trees light up town, and local wine tasting and Hearst Castle are minutes away. We’ve got so many ways to celebrate the holidays with family and friends.”

Hearst Castle and Wine Make us Merry!Holiday cheer is in abundance in and around Morro Bay. Located on California’s Central Coast on scenic Highway 1 just minutes from the festive holiday tours atHearst Castle, and wine tasting in Paso Robles and Edna Valley Wine regions, Morro Bay is the place to holiday.Paso Robles and Edna Valley are home to many wine touring companies that will come to Morro Bay and pick you up from your hotel. Need more reasons to visit?Check out these holiday lodging specials.

Crab Pot Christmas Trees

To celebrate its heritage the Central Coast Fisheries for Women arrange for nearly 30 Crab Pot Christmas Trees to be placed throughout town as a way to honor the amazing fishing families of Morro Bay. As an alternative to traditional holiday trees, these lighted sparkling trees are made out of real repurposed crab pots.

Fresh Local Crab on the Menu
During the holiday season, locals and visitors rave about the fresh and local seasonal crab found in abundance at Morro Bayseafood markets and restaurants. A true treat for the holidays, don’t miss out!

Rock these Holiday Events!This time of year offers some of the best weather to be outdoors, on the water, on the beach or anywhere in Morro Bay! Check out these upcoming events:

November 28 – Dec 18: Tall Ship Lady Washington in Harbor
Lady Washington the official tall ship of Washington State will visit Morro Bay, CA and offer walk-on tours and family-oriented Adventure Sails featuring demonstrations of tall ship handling, sea shanty singing, and maritime amusements. After your tour of the Tall Ship, walk across the street to the newMorro Bay Maritime Museum. The Museum is open every Saturday from 10am – 4pm.

November 30: Citywide Holiday Crab Pot Tree Lighting
Join us in Morro Bay for a simultaneous lighting of nearly 30 Crab Pot Holiday Trees around the City of Morro Bay. The citywide celebration begins at 5 pm. Locations are City Park, Downtown, T-Pier, Anchor Park & other various locations around town.

November 30: Lighted Boat Parade Preview
Come enjoy our large vessels and commercial boats as they cruise up and down the Embarcadero waterway as you dine. They will be layered in lights and festive holiday spirit for your enjoyment while you eat in one of the many waterfront restaurants or stroll the Embarcadero. Some of the vessels in the parade preview include a U.S. Coast Guard Vessel, Tall Ship Lady Washington, the Papagallo, the Chablis and several boats from our fishing fleet. This event is brought to you by the waterfront restaurants.

November 30 – Dec 15: Santa’s House at the Embarcadero
Santa will be on the Embarcadero every night from 6 – 8 pm with presents and treats for the children. Pictures are free with an option to purchase a frame. Come visit Jolly ol’ Saint Nick in Morro Bay at the Chess Board on the Embarcadero. Santa’s House is sponsored by Morro Bay Rotary.

December 1 – Dec 18: Tall Ship Hawaiian Chieftain in Harbor
The Hawaiian Chieftain was influenced by the early colonial passenger and coastal ships that traded among Atlantic coastal cities and towns in the 19th century. In 1993, Lady Washington joined Hawaiian Chieftain for their first mock sea battle on San Francisco Bay and will replicate that adventure in Morro Bay.Get your mock sea battle tickets now! December 1: 33rd Annual Lighted Boat Parade
The Annual Lighted Boat Parade continues in its 33rd year as our motorized fishing, leisure and yachting community take to the water after decorating their boats with amazing lights and holiday cheer. Take a seat anywhere along the waterfront for your front row view. This visual event will include music by the Home Town Band, cocoa and treats for sale, and a winter wonderland. Prizes for best decorated boat include $1000 cash and more.December 2: Paddle Parade
On Sunday afternoon the harbor will feature holiday decorated kayaks, SUPs, small sailboats, surfboards and anything that floats in this Non-Motorized Lighted Boat Parade. Along with fun family activities on shore, prizes will be given for the best decorated will be $1000 in cash and gifts.December 7: Santa’s Crawl
Enjoy this 21 & over scavenger hunt featuring Central Coast beers and wines during our 2nd Annual Santa’s Crawl. Businesses along the waterfront will showcase local winemakers brew masters, each offering a taste of their exceptional product. A completely filled out Yule-Tide Passport will enter you to win the Grand Prize Weekend Package where you wine and dine throughout Morro Bay!December 8: Gingerbread House Competition
Anyone can participate in this fun activity! Bakers love to build Gingerbread Houses for the holidays, and what better way to showcase your talents? Build a complete Gingerbread House and bring it to the Inn at Morro Bay and enter into this fun contest!December 9: Real Snow Event!!!
Play like no one is watching at Morro Bay’s real snow event! Three areas of snow for different ages of children to play on include a sledding hill, snow ball alley and under five area for the little elves. An Elf on the Shelf competition will take place and is fun for the whole family! Create elf dioramas and win fabulous prizes. We provide the elves!

Christmas parties are around the corner, and as you begin to think about how you’re celebrating the holidays this year, let us introduce you toSplacer, a platform where you can find and rent 3,000 of the most unique spaces from captained yachts to speakeasies or breweries, abandoned rail cars to lofts, and warehouses to art galleries and car showrooms.

As you are planning your holiday party, Thanksgiving, and Friendsgiving stories, or sharing some of the best-kept secrets in cities across the US, check out some of the most unique places down below.

The trail blazer of women-only travel has created two itineraries where few travel. On five departures in 2018, Wild Women Expeditions immerses women in the physically challenging, poignantly stunning landscape of Newfoundland in the remote northeastern corner of Canada.

Two distinct, week-long adventures engage guests on Newfoundland’s western shore, separated from Quebec by the Gulf of St. Lawrence that eventually pours into the North Atlantic.

This is home turf for Wild Women Expeditions that offers more active travel departures for women only than any other tour operator in the world. The company was founded in Newfoundland and maintains its headquarters here. Owner Jennifer Haddow grew up near Gros Morne National Park where many of the itineraries’ activities take place.

“This is a place of stark ancient beauty, where the ground beneath your feet tells the story of Earth’s geological history. It’s also a place where icebergs stroll up and down coastal waters and where fjords claw their way into the interior,” explained Haddow, noting that few other adventure travel companies offer tours here.

Indigenous peoples predated the Vikings who arrived some 1000 years ago. England first raised a flag on the North American continent in the late 16th century in what came to be called Newfoundland. Fishermen soon discovered some of the Atlantic’s most productive waters here. The park’s Long Range Mountains testify to this once geologically charged world rife with volcanos and glaciers. These mountains are part of the Appalachian chain rising from Georgia through Maine.

“Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is as important to Plate Tectonics Theory as Ecuador’s Galapagos Archipelago is to the Theory of Evolution,” Haddow added. “The challenges of this environment become metaphors for the challenges faced by the women who choose to travel with us.”

Hiking first through a barren landscape, women discover where the peridotite ends and ancient oceanic crust begins. They hike through a boreal forest to the rugged coastline where pillow lava and sea stacks dominate the shore. They move to the rich marine wonderland of Bonne Bay and a landlocked lake before summiting Gros Morne Mountain in a hike of up to 10 hours.

Following are two 2018 Wild Women Expeditions’ itineraries in Newfoundland. Daily challenges reflect the company’s philosophy that women can discover and build on their own inner strengths by mastering hurdles in the safe company of other women.

Newfoundland Gros Morne Multi-Sport Adventure is a seven-day hiking and kayaking expedition in one of the wildest places in Canada. In 2018 there are three departures: July 21-27, Aug. 11-17 and Sept. 8-14. The $2,695 CAD per person rate includes professional local female guides, all meals, six nights shared accommodation in oceanside cabins, fully outfitted sea kayak day trip on Bonne Bay, guided hikes, ground transportation, park pass and Western Brook Pond Fjord boat tour.

Guests walk on rugged trails over the Earth’s mantle that supports little to no vegetation, explore fossil remains, visit an artsy village, kayak in a sheltered fjord, witness Minke whales, eagles, terns, and kingfishers in the bay and on land; caribou, Rock ptarmigan and Arctic hare. There’s also time to relax on a boat tour of a land-locked fjord accessed through bogs and limestone ridges. For trip details see http://wildwomenexpeditions.com/trips/newfoundland-multisport/.

Icebergs and Arts Adventure is an eight-day wilderness immersion with a hefty dollop of culture on two departures in 2018: June 3-10 and July 6-13. The per person rate of $2,695 CAD includes professional female guides; all meals; seven nights shared accommodation in an authentic house and suites, a wilderness lodge and seaside cabins; guided and fully outfitted sea kayak day; guided hikes and interpretive walks in Gros Morne National Park and along the Great Northern Peninsula; Western Brook Pond Fjord boat tour and iceberg and whale watching boat tour; interpretive tour and lunch at the French Shore Museum in Conche; and a visit to L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Viking history comes alive.

At Port aux Choix National Historic Site guests hike to Philips Garden to explore the ancient remains of one of the largest Dorset Paleoeskimo settlements in the Eastern Canadian Arctic. They also visit the Myra Bennett Heritage House, the home of a nurse known along the 200 miles of coast simply as “the nurse.” This remarkable woman brought her life-saving skills to what was then an isolated, rugged Great Northern Peninsula. See: https://wildwomenexpeditions.com/trips/newfoundland/

“Canada is a country designed for adventurers. For women who want it all, Canada delivers the goods,” said Haddow. “We’ve been trailblazing outdoor adventures in Canada for over a quarter of a century. Increasingly women want to feel the freedom of connecting with wild space in its finest form. In Canada are some of the wildest and grandest natural treasures on the planet.”

Wild Women Expeditions’ Canadian programs are prototypes for the baptism-by-wilderness experiences that Haddow’s team arranges in 26 countries this year. These journeys reflect that…

Women need opportunities to just be themselves, together;

The wilderness helps women connect with elements of their psyche that may be lost in the daily hustle and bustle;

Pairing women and wilderness often encourages women beyond their comfort zones, leading to increased confidence;

These ingredients can be transformational, perhaps leading to answers to the question that Poet Mary Oliver poses: What is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?

About :

Founded in 1991, Wild Women Expeditions is the world’s largest women-only travel company. Its initial focus was on canoeing on remote Ontario waters. Through an unwavering focus on Canada, one of the wildest, most pristine countries in the world, Wild Women Expeditions became Canadian experts in a pioneering niche that introduced small groups of women into wilderness settings. Even though the company now hosts guests all over the world, it retains a national focus with more trips and more women-only, backcountry camping adventures in Canada than any other women’s travel company in the world.

WHAT: The Pedal on the Pier fundraiser transforms Santa Monica Pier into a high energy outdoor cycling studio to raise money for the foundation’s Camp Ubuntu, which provides LA’s underprivileged children with a unique camp experience. The lessons and experiences these children learn at Camp Ubuntu enrich their lives and empower them with necessary skills needed to better themselves at home, across their communities and throughout life. Pedal on the Pier has raised over a million dollars last year, totaling over five million dollars, and hopes to far surpass those numbers this year.

With the Pacific Ocean as the backdrop, Pedal on the Pier’s 5-hour spin-a-thon features teams riding on indoor cycling bikes provided by Stages Cycling, live musical performances, DJs, spin instructors from Revolution Fitness Santa Monica, celebrities, athletes, food and drinks from local restaurants, influential brands and fun festivities in the sun.

In order to participate, riders can register as an individual and join a team or start a team. Each team must raise a minimum of $2,500 for the Harold Robinson Foundation to have a bike reserved. Registered riders will receive a free T-shirt, swag bag and a meal ticket and access to the 21 and over lounge with hosted alcoholic beverages from sponsors. There will also be a cash bar with beer and wine. There will also be a limited number of $100 spectator tickets which includes access to the festivities and hosted food and beverages from local vendors.

WHEN:

June 3, 2018

11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Red carpet begins at 9:30 a.m.

WHERE:

Santa Monica Pier

200 Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica, CA 90401

TICKETS: Participants can register as a “Team” (1-5 riders) with a minimum fundraising commitment of $2,500 per bike or purchase a spectator tickets for $100. Tickets and registration are available at www.pedalonthepier.com and click on REGISTER.

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About The Harold Robinson Foundation:

The Harold Robinson Foundation is a 501(c)2 founded in 2009 by Jeff Robinson, Joyce Hyser Robinson and David Moss. It began with an idea from Jeff Robinson, almost 20 years ago; that every child should have the same opportunities he had as a kid, no matter where they stand on the socioeconomic ladder. The foundation is named for Jeff’s late father. The Harold Robinson Foundation provides the funding and resources to send Los Angeles’s less fortunate children to camp, in a safe and nurturing environment, far away from the stress that most of them face on a daily basis. The foundation also runs a summer day at the Markham Middle School in Watts, CA. For more information, visit www.haroldrobinsonfoundation.org/.

It is that time of the year again, when Americans start preparing their tax returns, but there’s good news as most taxpayers can expect to receive an average refund of $2,895 according to the IRS. This year, South African Tourism is once again launching its Tax Refund campaign to encourage savvy travelers and adventure seekers to make the most of their refund with an out-of-this-world trip to South Africa. Partnering with the top US travel trade partners South African Tourism unveils six new exciting packages priced between $1,700-$3,200 to reflect the average tax refund. The packages offer a variety of experiences focusing on romance, adventure and culture throughout South Africa.

Today’s favorable exchange rate also guarantees US travelers’ hard-earned refund money goes further than ever in South Africa. South African Tourism is also excited to collaborate with TurboTax® this season on a blog post inspired by South Africa’s 10 most Instagrammable locations which will be live onwww.blog.turbotax.intuit.com/.

Whether a history buff, art and culture enthusiast, foodie, adventurer or nature lover, South Africa has something to offer every discerning traveler looking for an affordable vacation. This year’s exclusive deals include:

Gate 1 – 8 Day South Africa Tour with Game Drives & Flights — 8 days and 6 nights

Enjoy the best of Cape Town by exploring Table Mountain and then visit either the Winelands or Cape Peninsula. After a few days in the “Mother City,” head on to Johannesburg to transfer to the safari portion of your trip. You’ll be able to spot all kinds of wildlife while enjoying South Africa’s natural beauty. From US$1699/ Per Person Sharing (includes US $260pp savings with promo code SATD260).

This week, you’ll take a deep dive into exploring Cape Town’s gorgeous sites and vibrant culture. Whether biking through Cape Point, whale watching from the golden shores, or hiking Table Mountain, you’re sure to fall in love with Cape Town. From US $1,999* Per Person Sharing.

Explore the beautiful coastal town of Durban to see a different side of South Africa. Here, you’ll experience the historical melting pot of Indian and African cultures or spend a day relaxing on the beach. Afterwards, you’ll transfer to Thanda Safari Private Game Reserve to partake in game drives and learn about the Zulu tribe members that originally lived there. From US $2,195 Per Person Sharing.

Guests can explore the vibrant city of Johannesburg and a guided tour to the Soweto Township, a cultural melting pot with a wealth of heritage sites that will fascinate any visitor. Visit Kruger National Park before continuing on to Stellenbosch in the heart of the Cape Winelands. Then Visit Cape Town, regularly voted one of the most beautiful cities in the world. From US$2,799* Per Person Sharing.

Enjoy scenic beauty, culture and world class restaurants in Cape Town. Marvel at spectacular views of the Atlantic seaboard from the top of Table Mountain. Explore the Cape Peninsula, on a full-day tour that offers dramatic scenery and endearing penguins. From US $2,999* Per Person Sharing.

Experience the perfect mix of safari and city with this trip to South Africa. After 3 nights of game drives in malaria-free Pilanesberg Game Reserve, couples can retreat to the beach suburb of Cape Town to relax. From US $3,199* Per Person Sharing.

“South Africa is blessed with breathtaking natural scenery, world-class safari experiences, and adrenaline pumping adventure activities; and with celebrations around the Nelson Mandela Centenary planned throughout 2018, now is the ideal time to visit,” said Bangu Masisi, President of South African Tourism, Americas. “These packages from our partners showcase the variety of exciting travel experiences that are made possible by using your tax refund”. To book these packages or view additional South Africa travel deals, please visit southafrica.net/deals. For more information on South Africa’s rich and diverse offerings visit www.southafrica.net, follow @SouthAfrica on Twitter and @VisitSouthAfrica on Instagram and Facebook.

No culinary stoned unturned in this annual lineup, which spans a salute to the Lodge’s annual lavender harvest to an evening of sheer decadence focused on the world’s top treasures. Back by popular demand, chef Cal Stamenov’s 4th Annual Craftsmen Exchange (October 27) delivers a culinary cache of local artisans, cheese mongers and fungi foragers for a convivial afternoon.

EPICUREAN PLAYGROUND

Carmel Valley is a unique microclimate delivering optimum conditions for growing grapes, lavender, fruit and a litany of obscure herbs and vegetables. Tucked into 28 fragrant acres of lavender, olive orchards and vineyards with sweeping Santa Lucia Range views, Bernardus Lodge & Spa savors the seasons with an enviable larder of on-property organic gardens paired with a back pocket of foragers, farmers and fishermen answering chef Cal’s call. Just 10 miles inland from the Pacific, the lodge features 73 luxurious guestrooms, including the 2016 debut of 14 exclusive guest suites and villas crafted from the ground up. Key perks include the award-winning Lucia Restaurant & Bar, guestrooms with alfresco rain showers, butler services, complimentary Mercedes-Benz convertibles, the 5,200 sq., ft., Spa at Bernardus and a three-to-one staff ratio.

2018 EVENTS

Exhibition Kitchen Dinner: 2nd Annual Chicken & Brisket

Thursday, March 8, 2018

6:30 pm

$75 per person, plus tax & gratuity

Back by popular demand, this festive event begins with a welcome reception on the Harvest Terrace with live music and Southern inspired specialty cocktails hosted by Lost Spirits. Then step into the Harvest Room Exhibition Kitchen by Sub-Zero and Wolf as Chef Cal takes a spin on comfort food with smoked Wagyu brisket and organic fried chicken showcased in three distinct styles paired with select wines from the award-winning cellar. Seating is limited and reservations are required.

Spring Equinox at The Spa

Tuesday, March 20, 2018

8:30 am – 6:30 pm

Included in service pricing.

Renewal is on tap at the luxurious 5,300 sq., ft., Spa at Bernardus. Choose from an array of seasonal services including massage, bodywork and facials and then extend the spa day with our complimentary Spring Equinox activities including restorative yoga, Bernardus wine tasting and soap making demonstration. Note: A minimum 50-minute service must be booked in order to enjoy the spa facilities and Spring Solstice events.

Bourbon & Barbeque

Saturday, March 17, 2018

3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

$55 per person, plus tax & gratuity

Move over California red and make way for Kentucky Gold! Enjoy a spirited afternoon with select small bites, smoked treats, sweet and savory chicken waffles and chef Cal’s signature smooth culinary moves paired with a single-barrel, rye and small batch bourbons from an eclectic line up of producers across the United States.

Celebrate mom in all her glory with an afternoon at the Lodge, backed with stunning brunch buffet prepared by Chef Cal and his culinary team. Highlights include a sushi and seafood bar, local organic vegetables, naturally-raised meats, farmhouse cheeses and traditional brunch desserts. Accented by a classical harpist, the atmosphere will pamper the entire family with an afternoon of world-class service and cuisine.

Memorial Day Barbeque

Monday, May 28, 2018

12:00 pm – 2:30 pm

Adults $45, Children ages 5-12 $20, plus tax & gratuity

Fire up the barbeque for a day of play in sun-drenched Carmel Valley. Enjoy live music at Lucia Restaurant & Bar paired with a lip smacking barbeque featuring free range chicken, natural Angus beef, smoked Caggiano sausages, country potato salad, organic green salad and the ultimate American sidekick, corn-on-the-cob.

Father’s Day Barbeque, Beer & Bocce

Sunday, June 17, 2018

12:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Adults $45, Children ages 5-12 $20, plus tax & gratuity

Ah, bocce with a bourbon in hand, what more could dad ask. Settle in for an afternoon of family activities served with a side of delicious barbeque. The summer alfresco celebration includes savory free range chicken, natural Angus beef burgers, artisan sausage and plenty of garden greens from chef Cal’s organic garden.

Summer Solstice at The Spa

Tuesday, June 21, 2018

8:30 am – 6:30 pm

Included in service pricing.

The longest day of the year symbolically fires up passions and heats up hearts to the potential of life that abounds. Choose from our array of new seasonal services including massage, bodywork and facials and extend the spa day with complimentary Summer Solstice activities including a guided hike through Garland Ranch, tarot card readings and poolside Bernardus wine tasting. Note: A minimum 50-minute service must be booked in order to enjoy the spa facilities and Summer Solstice events.

4th of July

Tuesday, July 4, 2018

12:00 pm – 2:30 pm

Priced off Menu

Embrace America’s independence with live music and Lucia’s Restaurant & Bar’s alfresco setting complete with zenith-of-summer dishes and artisan cocktails inspired by our country’s biggest break up. Sunshine, bocce and a bust-out line up of luncheon treats await.

Chef Cal’s Summer Garden Tour

Every Saturday Memorial Day weekend through August (excluding August 25)

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Complimentary to Lodge Guests

Bees, beets and Brussel sprouts, oh my! Join chef Cal and garden guru Mark Marino for an informative walk through the Lodge’s three-acre organic herb, flower and vegetable gardens – as well as a visit to Bernardus’ legendary Italian honey bee. This heady experience is certain to pique palates as many of the day’s pick are showcased on Lucia Restaurant’s daily menu.

Lavender Harvest Celebration

Saturday, July 14, 2018

11:00 am – 2:00 pm

$105 per person, plus tax & gratuity

Tucked throughout the Lodge’s 28-acres of lush olive trees, rosemary and rose gardens lie more than 1,000 lavender plants in full bloom. Provence in Carmel, this event is certain to please anyone who loves the scent of lavender. Glass of rosé in hand, stroll Chef Cal’s abundant organic garden and lavender beds with horticulturist Mark Marino; experience the new informative bee talk and honey tasting and slide into a unique grand lavender inspired buffet lunch with ingredients culled from our garden and vineyard. Space is limited and reservations are required.

Rose Soiree

Saturday, July 28, 2018

12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

$75 per person, plus tax & gratuity

It’s rose all day as Bernardus Lodge raises a rosy-hued glass to summer’s favorite buzz. Set in the blossoming Rose Garden, this is the event for flowing dress wear and big brimmed hats. Sip and saunter with a selection of rose wines, canapes, a seafood bar and seasonal fresh desserts.

Heirloom Tomato Lunch

Saturday, September 2, 2018

11:00 am – 2:00 pm

$115 per person, plus tax & gratuity

It’s tomato time in Carmel Valley as Chef Cal celebrates the grand fruit in a variety for formats this fall. Sip a Bloody Mary while shucking oysters alongside local farmers Dick and Bonnie Swank of Swank Farms as they guide guests through over multiple varieties of their certified organic heirloom tomatoes. After an alfresco reception, step into Lucia Restaurant for a garden inspired lunch buffet featuring Tomato Ratatouille, Carmel Valley gazpacho, roasted free range Sonoma chicken and natural prime beef. Space is limited and reservations are required.

From guided hikes to holistic wellness experiences focused on balance, The Spa at Bernardus Lodge rejuvenates the entire being-mind, body and soul. Fall is considered the season of stability, a time in which one restores equilibrium to their life. Choose from our array of relaxation services including massage, bodywork and facials and then extend the spa day with complimentary Autumn Equinox activities including henna art, cold pressed juice bar and vino & vinyasa. Note: A minimum 50-minute service must be booked in order to enjoy the spa facilities and Autumn Solstice events.

3rd Annual Barbeque & Grape Stomp

Saturday, October 6, 2018

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

$85 per person, plus tax & gratuity

Pay homage to the Carmel Valley annual grape harvest with a traditional grape stomping and Bernardus Winery barrel tasting backed with savory barbeque oysters, live country music and a family-style barbeque lunch. Celebrate the 2018 vintage firsthand in Ingrid’s Vineyard with winemaker Dean DeKorth and vineyard manager Matt Shea as hosts. Space is limited and reservations are required.

4rd Annual Craftsman Exchange

Saturday, October 27, 2018

12:00 pm – 2:00 pm

$75 per person, plus tax & gratuity

An annual favorite saluting a cache of culinary superstars including seaweeds farmers, craft cheese mongers, heirloom fruit enthusiasts, local beer artisans, bee keepers, fungi foragers and wine producers for a convivial showcase of flavor and style. Enjoy a casual Carmel Valley vibe in a sophisticated setting where alfresco seating, warm hospitality, and vineyard views are paired with tastes throughout. Space is limited and reservations are required.

It’s tough at the top! Indulgence hits a high note at the annual event that continues to wow palates and literally blow minds. Celebrate the world’s top culinary treasures as the evening kicks off with caviar and a glass of champagne or black truffle martini and behind the scenes stroll into Chef Cal’s award-winning kitchen for savory bites right “off the line.” On tap are winter’s most decadent delights: France’s black truffles, Maine’s lobster, ranch-raised Wagyu beef and locally foraged golden chanterelles. Chef Cal combines these inspiring ingredients with rare wines from around the world to create the ultimate winter menu. The tasting menu exemplifies how luxury ingredients can be preserved, reinterpreted and crafted into sophisticated dishes. Seating is limited and reservations are required.

Winter Solstice at The Spa

Thursday, December 21, 2018

8:30 am – 6:30 pm

Price included in service.

The Winter Solstice is the start of the solar year and a significant time of ritual, reflection and renewal. Choose from the Spa at Bernardus Lodge’s award-winning array of relaxation services including massage, bodywork, facials or salon services and extend the spa day with complimentary Winter Solstice activities including holiday cookie and cider hour, wine tasting, fire dancers and starlight swim. Note: A minimum 50-minute service must be booked in order to enjoy the spa facilities and Winter Solstice events.

Ring in the New Year with a sinful six-course tasting menu showcasing chef Cal’s culinary prowess. Focused on healthy, seasonal fare, the menu reflects on the ultimate pleasure of what exceptional dining does for your soul.

New Year’s Day Brunch with Live Music

Tuesday, January 1, 2019

11:00 am – 2:30 pm

Price off Menu

Enjoy live music with a backdrop of a fresh New Year and sumptuous brunch.

BACKSTORY

Perennially recognized by discerning readers of Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best Resorts” and Conde Nast Traveler’s “Top Resorts” and as well as a Wine Spectatoraward recipient (2001-2017), this Forbes Travel Guide Four Star property has long set the gold standard for wine country vacationing. Reopened after a full resort renovation in 2015, Bernardus Lodge & Spa is set on 28 pristine Carmel Valley acres awash with vineyards and lavender and boasts 73 luxurious guestrooms, suites & villas, the signature Spa at Bernardus Lodge, award-winning Lucia Restaurant & Bar, a junior Olympic size swimming pool, a hilltop adults-only infinity Jacuzzi, an alfresco croquet and bocce court, two tennis courts and 4,300 sq. ft. of meeting space. Woodside Hotel Group, an operator of a portfolio of distinguished independent luxury properties throughout Northern California, is the management company for the property.